How long may a hospital or doctor detain a child suspected of being abused without parental permission?

A hospital or doctor may detain a child suspected of being abused for up to 24 hours without parental permission to ensure the child's safety and allow for necessary assessments. This time frame provides medical professionals the opportunity to conduct a thorough evaluation and determine the best course of action to protect the child while also realizing that parental consent may not always be immediately feasible in situations involving suspected abuse.

This policy is in place to prioritize the well-being of the child and allow authorities to become involved if necessary, thereby taking swift action in potentially dangerous situations. Following these 24 hours, if further intervention is required, medical staff must typically involve child protective services or law enforcement for guidance on subsequent procedures.